If you don't have an invitation or military identification, forget about going to Coronado to see the carrier Ronald Reagan arrive tomorrow.

The giant warship, the newest aircraft carrier in the fleet, is expected to dock about 10 a.m. at North Island Naval Air Station. A welcoming ceremony, attended by former first lady Nancy Reagan and other dignitaries, will start an hour later.

Security at North Island, the carrier's new home, will be tight. Base access will largely be limited to invitees, family members and military.

Many military and civilian workers at the base are being asked to stay home to relieve traffic and parking problems expected when 8,000 or more people crowd the base to see the Reagan arrive.

The best view for the public probably will be from the heights of Point Loma, including Cabrillo National Monument; along the water on Harbor and Shelter islands; the Embarcadero and at Seaport Village.

The ship is expected to be visible from Point Loma after sunrise, although clouds and early fog could limit visibility, according to the National Weather Service.

It will enter the main channel after 9 a.m., but by then weather conditions should improve. Although there still may be clouds along the coast, those watching for the Reagan may be able to see up to five miles, according to the forecast.

Cabrillo National Monument opens to the public at 9 a.m. Admission is $5.

A billboard-sized TV screen will be set up at Seaport Village to view the pier-side welcoming ceremony, which starts at 10 a.m. Several local television and radio stations are expected to broadcast the event live.

Boaters are being advised that the Coast Guard has set up security zones surrounding the carrier berths at North Island and the Midway museum, where a gala is planned tomorrow night.

In addition, security regulations enacted after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks mandate that all boats stay at least 500 yards away from the carrier as it sails into San Diego Bay. A flotilla of security vessels will ring the Reagan and intercept intruding vessels. Failure to heed warnings could be punished by six years in prison and a $250,000 fine, Coast Guard officials said.

The day of festivities will be capped with a fireworks display on the bay, off Broadway Pier, at 10 p.m. Best viewing, organizers said, will be from the Embarcadero and Seaport Village.